Defence Ministry to use idle military land for food security, veteran welfare, says Khaled Nordin

KOTA TINGGI, Oct 11 — Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin has announced a plan to utilise unused military land for addressing food security concerns and improving the well-being of veterans. The initiative, called the JanaVeteran Programme, will be carried out in collaboration with Boustead Plantations (BPlant). Nordin explained that there are plots of land that have remained unused for 10 to 15 years due to the lack of development plans.

By utilizing BPlant's assistance, the programme aims to enhance food security and create job opportunities for retired military personnel, keeping them engaged in productive work. With around 5,000 military personnel retiring annually, the programme offers a suitable avenue for them to participate in agriculture. Nordin emphasized the significance of food security, stating that any supply shortages or escalating food prices could potentially pose a threat to national security, a situation akin to the effects of prolonged haze.

The pilot project for the JanaVeteran Programme commenced with the cultivation of KayTi ginger at Ladang Telok Sengat, with the programme guaranteeing a market for the participants, as BPlant will purchase the produce. Nordin, who is also the Kota Tinggi MP, aims to position the district as the country's primary producer of KayTi ginger, with the help of BPlant through the JanaKomuniti Programme at Felda Air Tawar 3 and Felda Air Tawar 2.

Upon the programme's success, Kota Tinggi is expected to emerge as the nation’s food valley through the cultivation of KayTi ginger.